Knesset Committee Approves First Reading of Basic Law on Torah Study Amid Controversy

The Knesset Committee approved the first reading of a proposed Basic Law on Torah Study on Tuesday, amid intense debate over its goals and constitutional implications. The draft law, coordinated with the Ministerial Committee on Legislation, aims to establish Torah study as a fundamental value in Jewish heritage and the State of Israel. However, the proposal is subject to further revision following concerns raised during the discussion.

Deputy Legal Advisor to the Government, Adv. Avital Sompolinsky, criticized the legislative process, stating that the law cannot advance without clarifying its purpose and addressing key questions such as who qualifies as a Haredi individual and their rights and obligations. MK Yitzhak Goldknopf defended the initiative, emphasizing the law’s intent to recognize Torah study and prevent punitive measures against those who study it.

Opposition MK Merav Michaeli condemned the bill as privileging male Torah learners above other laws, arguing that Torah existed before the state and does not require such legislation. MK Vladimir Beliak questioned the practical and budgetary implications of the law’s provisions, which MK Moshe Gafni dismissed, noting that no Basic Law had previously been scrutinized for budget impact and that this law would not affect soldiers’ rights or benefits.

MK Yossi Taieb highlighted the proposal’s declarative status, intended to provide judges with constitutional protection regarding the value of Torah study relative to other fundamental values. The committee’s approval marks a significant step, but the bill remains under review before further readings in the Knesset.